Theatre South Carolina’s last show of the season, Arthur Miller’s The Crucible, is now playing at Drayton Hall Theater. Directed by Eric Hoffmann, the play is as long, dark, and brooding as ever, but the message is intact and relevant on this, the play’s 50th anniversary.
Of course, this drama of the Salem witch trials was a thinly veiled commentary on the McCarthy era when it was written in 1953, but it also could be referring to witch hunts today. There is nothing new or different about this production, but it is distinguished by some excellent performances.
Zach Hanks and Pamela Vogel are outstanding as John and Elizabeth Proctor. They play their roles with substance and dignity, and their farewell scene when John and Rebecca Nurse, well played by Malie Heider, go to their deaths is deeply moving.
Also worthy of special mention are Kay Allmand as Abigail, Mary Floyd as Mary Warren, and Patrick Mullins as the Rev. John Hale. But performances are good across the board. Under Hoffmann’s direction, the large cast handles the heavy, difficult script with grace and fluidity.
Costume designers Lisa Martin-Stuart and Valerie Pruett do an admirable job of portraying the 1692 time period. The stark set by scenic designer Kimi Maeda with lighting designer Gary Peoples establishes the dark mood from the production’s onset.
In short, there is nothing novel or rare about this production, but it is well done. And as long as there are witch hunts in our society, its message remains relevant. The Crucible continues through April 27. Call 7-2551 for reservations.
04/03
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